Xabi Alonso was hugely influential in Morgan Rogers' decision to join Chelsea, with a simple photograph of the pair smiling together highlighting the manager's role—no sporting director in sight.
Shift in Transfer Policy
Many of Chelsea's signings under the current ownership have seemed like business enterprises rather than footballing ones, but the £117 million acquisition of Rogers is a pure footballing move driven by Alonso, who is both manager and coach. If they tempt John Stones to Stamford Bridge or buy Crystal Palace defender Maxence Lacroix, it will be similarly driven by footballing reasons.
Alonso is making his mark, and Rogers is expected to flourish under the guidance of one of the most accomplished midfielders the Premier League has seen.
Rogers' Potential and Partnership with Palmer
Thomas Tuchel once preferred Rogers to Jude Bellingham, and Rogers never let Tuchel or England down. Turning 24 on Sunday, Rogers has plenty of developing to do, especially now he will be in harness with great friend Cole Palmer.
“He is non-stop ringing my phone, texting me, and I can’t wait. I think that’s probably the most special thing, playing with one of your best friends and being around him every day. It’s something I’m really excited about,” Rogers said.
This partnership underlines Palmer's commitment to the club, which was not always taken for granted by sections of the fanbase.
Further Transfers and Alonso's Impact
Chelsea are also bidding for Bournemouth's Alex Scott, who would be a dependable replacement for Enzo Fernandez if they can get a nine-figure fee for the Argentinian. Rogers, possibly Stones, possibly Scott—these are established Premier League performers.
Rogers brings versatility that Alonso will love. If Alonso uses the back-three system from Bayer Leverkusen, Palmer and Rogers could line up as dual number 10s. In 55 appearances for Aston Villa last season, Rogers contributed 14 goals and 12 assists. Across his last two seasons, he has 18 Premier League goals and 16 assists.
A lucrative seven-year deal played a part in Rogers' choice, but working with Alonso was also a factor. Alonso is a draw-card for potential signings, and Chelsea will have more outgoings shipped out with his blessing—good, conventional transfer market business for a good, conventional manager.
Alonso has not managed a game yet, but his immediate impact has been to make a dysfunctional club look like a functional challenger once again. How Alonso and Chelsea perform remains to be seen, but it will be one of the Premier League's more compelling narratives.
